Strawberry Shortcake for Two

Name: Strawberry Shortcake for Two
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup milk; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Home-Baked Happiness

I love making this Strawberry Shortcake for Two because it's the perfect sweet treat to share with someone special. The combination of fluffy biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream is simply irresistible! It’s a delightful dessert that doesn’t require a lot of time but delivers big on flavor. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a simple weeknight dessert, this recipe will surely impress. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a whim without any complex steps or ingredients.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:16:10.659Z

When I first made this Strawberry Shortcake, it was a spontaneous decision to celebrate a small victory. I had just completed a challenging project, and what better way to honor the moment than with my favorite dessert? The method of mixing the dough quickly ensures the biscuits remain tender and flaky. I love watching them rise beautifully in the oven, filling the kitchen with a sweet aroma.

One specific detail that sets this shortcake apart is macerating the strawberries. I sprinkle them with a touch of sugar, allowing the natural juices to flow, which creates a delicious syrup. This extra step is simple yet makes a world of difference, giving the strawberries a burst of flavor that complements the light, airy biscuits perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fluffy biscuits that melt in your mouth
Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor
Light whipped cream that adds the perfect touch

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundational element of this Strawberry Shortcake is the biscuit. The balance of flour, sugar, baking powder, and cold butter is essential for achieving that light, fluffy texture. Cold butter helps to create flaky layers, so it’s important to cube it before mixing to retain its chill. If you find yourself without heavy cream for whipping, consider using coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative—it whips up wonderfully and adds a subtle flavor that pairs well with strawberries.

When selecting strawberries, opt for ripe, organic berries if possible. They should be bright red with a natural sheen and no signs of bruising. Macerating the strawberries with sugar not only draws out their juices but also enhances their sweetness. If you prefer a less sugary topping, you can adjust the sugar to your liking or even omit it entirely if the berries are naturally sweet.

Key Techniques for Success

The biscuit-making technique is vital for achieving the right texture. When mixing the butter into the dry ingredients, avoid overworking the dough. The goal is to have pieces of butter visible as this will create airy pockets in the biscuit. If you don’t have a pastry cutter, two forks or your fingers can work just as well—just be quick to prevent the butter from softening too much.

When it comes to whipping the cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are chilled. This helps the cream to whip up faster and hold its shape better. Beat until you achieve soft peaks, which means the cream will hold its shape but still have a slightly droopy top. Over-whipping can lead to grainy butter, so keep a close eye on it as you blend.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect Strawberry Shortcake for Two:

For the Biscuits

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup milk

For the Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Make sure the ingredients are fresh for the best taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Biscuit Dough

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.

Shape and Bake the Biscuits

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into two rounds, and place on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice the biscuits in half, layer with the macerated strawberries and whipped cream, and top with the biscuit lid. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake for Two!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to your whipped cream or a hint of lemon zest to the strawberries.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this dessert in advance, consider making the biscuits ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be made up to a day ahead. Just reheat them briefly in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to refresh before serving.

Macerate the strawberries just an hour before serving to keep them fresh. If they're prepared too early, they can become overly mushy. The whipped cream can be whipped a few hours in advance; however, for the best texture, whisk it just before assembly to maintain its fluffiness.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Shortcake is delicious served with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch. The acidity of the balsamic enhances the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. Alternatively, crushed nuts like almonds or pecans make for a lovely crunchy topping alongside the soft textures of the cream and biscuit.

Try experimenting with different fruits, such as blueberries or peaches, to create variations of this shortcake. You could also incorporate a layer of lemon curd beneath the cream for a delightful citrus twist that elevates the classic flavors of the dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

The biscuits are best served fresh, but you can prepare the strawberries and whipped cream a few hours ahead and assemble just before serving.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can use store-bought whipped topping as an alternative, but freshly whipped cream provides a better texture and flavor.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries yield the best results, thawed frozen strawberries can work in a pinch. Just drain any excess liquid before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but be aware that the biscuits may become soggy.